One might be disappointed with the New Democrat MP accepting union donations to pay down his libel bill ... except that it's Pat Martin. Plus a very Canadian controversy over a professor's politically incorrect thoughts on literature, and the ultimate pundit's double-standard.

Under fire for accepting donations from trade unions to help pay off a massive debt incurred in a defamation lawsuit related to the robocalls affair, New Democrat MP Pat Martin says he was extremely cautious and if people aren’t satisfied, perhaps it’s the rules that need to change.

NDP MP Pat Martin says money he got from union donors to pay his defamation settlement was a "gift" that won't compromise his views. How is that different from the non-repayable $90,000 Mike Duffy got from Stephen Harper's chief of staff.

Influence peddling isn't just about walking up to someone with an open mind and offering them so much cash that they come to see it your way. Helping someone who already agrees with you to stay out of trouble buys as much influence as a suitcase of money before a key vote.

With the Queen now in her mid-80s, outspoken NDP MP Pat Martin says it’s time for Canada to consider severing ties with the British monarchy and suggests his private member’s motion to strike her out of the citizenship oath is a small first step.